Occupational therapy practitioners address all aspects of aging, from wellness strategies to treatment. With a focus on function, occupational therapy practitioners help keep older adults independent and safe, reducing health care costs associated with hospitalization and institutional care.
Occupational therapists must have a master’s degree for entry-level practice, and occupational therapy assistants must have an associate’s degree. Both must pass an initial certification exam.
The Fact Sheets below provide information on occupational therapy’s role with a variety of issues related to aging.
Community Mobility and Older Drivers
Driving and Transportation Alternatives for Older Adults
The Occupational Therapy Role in Driving and Community Mobility Across the Lifespan
Behind the Wheel: Occupational Therapy and Older Drivers
An Older Driver Rehabilitation Primer for Occupational Therapy Professionals - pdf
Occupational Therapy’s Role in Judicial Decisions About Older Drivers: A Guide for Occupational Therapists- pdf
Chronic Conditions
The Role of Occupational Therapy in Chronic Disease Management - pdf, 3.1 mb
Occupational Therapy’s Role in Diabetes Self-Management - pdf, 1 mb
Occupational Therapy's Role in Health Promotion - pdf, 3.1 mb
Occupational Therapy’s Role in Managing Arthritis - pdf, 774 kb
Living Life To Its Fullest™: Managing Chronic Pain With Occupational Therapy
Dementia
Dementia and the Role of Occupational Therapy
Occupational Therapy’s Role in Adult Cognitive Disorders
Falls Prevention
Occupational Therapy and Prevention of Falls
Preventing Falls With Occupational Therapy
Home Modifications
Home Modifications and Occupational Therapy
Home Modifications Promote Independent Living
Mental Health
Occupational Therapy's Role in Mental Health Recovery - pdf
Occupational Therapy's Role in Restraint Reduction or Elimination - pdf
Stroke
Recovering from Stroke with Occupational Therapy: Living Life To Its Fullest™
The Role of Occupational Therapy in Stroke Rehabilitation - pdf
OT's Role in Facilities
Occupational Therapy’s Role in Home Health
Occupational Therapy’s Role in Assisted Living Facilities
Occupational Therapy’s Role in Senior Centers - pdf, 1.6 mb
Occupational Therapy's Role in Skilled Nursing Facilities
OT for all Older Adults
The Role of Occupational Therapy in Providing Assistive Technology Devices and Services - pdf
Occupational Therapy’s Role in Sleep - pdf, 603 kb
Addressing Sensory Integration Across the Lifespan Through Occupational Therapy - pdf
Occupational Therapy: A Vital Role in Dysphagia Care - pdf, 1.4 mb
Occupational Therapy Services for Persons With Visual Impairment - pdf, 738 kb
The Role of Occupational Therapy in Oncology - pdf, 573 kb
The Role of Occupational Therapy in Palliative Care - pdf, 3.7 mb